What GB is saying about forgetting leave the iron on is a vital warning that does need to be stated especially since this is the beginners forum but you know what? Even reminders to experianced fellows is a very good thing.

One of our members is a volunteer fireman and its been a while now but a home was completely consumed. In the investigation after the fact the cause was traced to an unmistakeable hobby iron which he recognized of course.

BillinIndiana that would be a big mistake and you will accomplish nothing but making holes. Covering even with a proper hobby heat gun involves using a technique that means learning the distance for each temperature and learning a constant motion technique.

All the modern hobby type heat guns are a lower temperature type and has two speeds. Also all the hobby types I know off now have a cold air bleeder type inlet which gives you infinate adjustment of temperature by controlling the cold air bleed rate. This is absolutely a vital feature to be able to properly use a heat gun.

If you going to stay in the hobby then don,t substitute or repurpose common household irons and heat guns. The special tools are needed if you want to progress to anything beyond a few RTF's. The lower priced covering tools are fine and I use them But I beleve repurposed covering tools are a mistake That in long run will cost you much more in ruined covering films.

John